Kandy Bishop satisfied with IDP facilities
Upul BALASURIYA Vavuniya Central Group corr.
Sri Lanka Catholic Bishops Conference Chairman and Kandy Bishop Rev.
Vianney Fernando said he was happy with the facilities provided to
displaced families who have crossed over to Government-controlled areas.
|
 
Sri Lanka Catholic Bishops Conference Chairman and Kandy
Bishop Rev. Vianney Fernando in conversation with children
and youth at a vocational training centre at the welfare
centre. |
“The Government has treated all alike,” he said after concluding his
goodwill visit to Menikfarm Welfare Centre, Settikulam where displaced
families are housed. The Bishop and his entourage were welcomed by
Vavuniya Government Agent G.S.M. Charles at the welfare camp. They
inspected the camp and saw the facilities provided to the displaced
families.
About 88,000 displaced persons who have crossed over to the liberated
areas, have been housed in 14 welfare centres where food, health and
other welfare facilities have been provided. In addition, Vocational
Training Courses and self-employment projects have been provided for the
youth. A school and a pre-school have been set-up for the children.
The Catholic Priests exchanged their views with the displaced.
“We were living in constant fear in Vanni. We can now live free with
facilities provided by the Government. We are thankful to the
Government,” they told the priests.
A GCE (A/L) student said they were denied schooling due to Tiger
attacks.
“We now have schools inside our camp. Despite difficulties, we will
continue our studies till University entrance,” the student said.
Bishop Fernando said they learned about the IDPs through the media.
“We however came here to get first hand experience of the situation.
These people are happy today. The children are back in schools. We are
happy that the Government is providing all facilities to the displaced
people.” Northern Governor Dickson Sarathchandra Dela also participated.
|
